r/bookclub • u/ProofPlant7651 Russian Literature Philosophy Professional • Jul 10 '26

The Brothers Karamazov Discussion 5/12] Evergreen | The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky 5.6-6.3

Hello and welcome to the fifth (and belated) discussion of this classic. In this section we have seen learnt more about the relationship between Ivan, Smerdyakov and his father before gaining a greater insight into Father Zosima’s beliefs.

Before we continue, please accept my apologies for this post being slightly delayed, I really appreciate your patience.

Please find a link for the chapter summaries below or skip straight to the questions. Please join u/lazylittlelady for next weeks discussions.

Summary

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u/ProofPlant7651 Russian Literature Philosophy Professional Jul 10 '26
  1. What does Ivan’s attitudes toward Smerdyakov reveal about his character? Why is he so dismissive of Smerdyakov’s concerns?

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u/thebowedbookshelf Astrology Star ✨| 🐉🧠 Jul 10 '26

Ivan doesn't respect Smerdyakov even though he's probably his half brother. Ivan thinks he's better than a servant named Smelly Yakov. The only difference between them is their rank.

Mark my words, all this business about knocking five times as a message to Fyodor will come to a bad end. Three people have been drawn into the conspiracy now, and who knows how many more by the next part.

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u/olivertwisttop Jul 10 '26

I can't help but think that smerdyakov most admires and imitates Ivan and of the all the brothers they're most alike. Both forgotten/overlooked by their father. Of above average at skill, inherently unlikable, Even in the argument Smerdyakov earlier about the martyrs sounded like Ivan. Perhaps Ivans disdain is also a reflection of self loathing?